Nile Ranger facing drink-drive charge

IT HAS emerged that Swindon Town striker Nile Ranger is facing yet another court appearance after being charged with drink-driving.

The player, who was cleared of a rape charge last week, was arrested on February 2 by Gwent Police on the M4 in Wales.

A Gwent Police spokesman said: “At 7.15am on February 2 we were called to Magor services on junction 23a of the M4 motorway.

“A 22-year-old man from London was arrested and subsequently charged with being in charge of a motor vehicle – alcohol level above limit.
“He was released on bail to appear at court.”

Ranger was scheduled to appear at Cwmbran Magistrates’ Court on February 19 but failed to appear so a warrant for his arrest was issued.

Northumbria Police arrested him on Saturday morning but no further action will be taken and the former Newcastle player, who is out of action for the rest of season, is now due to appear in court on Tuesday.

A spokeswoman from the Northumbria Force said: “A 22-year-old man was arrested on a warrant on Saturday on suspicion of failing to appear at Cwmbran Magistrates’ Court. He was released with no further action.”

Northumbria Police are also internally investigating two of its own officers for neglect of duty in relation to the rape charge.

While there is no official confirmation it is understood that the two officers were asked to eject Ranger and the complainant on the night of the incident but failed to do so.

Deputy Chief Constable, Steve Ashman, of Northumbria Police, said: “We can confirm that two officers are currently suspended for neglect of duty.

“We took legal advice and were told that if any disciplinary hearing took place before the trial it could prejudice the rape trial.

“Therefore, we reluctantly postponed misconduct proceedings.
“However, now the trial is concluded the investigation can progress.”